Vauxhall Rad e bike

Posted by Julian Potter on 7th May 2014

The RAD e bike is a concept for getting around when car use is restricted or not possible. It’s aimed primarily at urban travellers at a time when e-bikes are predicted to play an increasing role in integrated urban transport.

The RAD e follows Vauxhall’s design philosophy – ‘sculptural artistry meets manufacturing precision’ – and incorporates the boomerang design cues that also appear in the award-winning Ampera and the RAKe experimental electric vehicle. The name comes from ‘Rad’ – the German word for bicycle and wheel.Auto production methods

The RAD e is the first e-bike concept to be designed around automotive manufacturing mass-production methods. Instead of exotic light-weight materials, the designers opted for a hollow pressed-steel frame which is also light weight, strong, flexible and easy to make.

The RAD e’s pedelec propulsion system is based on a state-of-the art 250-watt electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. The battery can be fully charged in two-and-a-half hours max. The e-bike can also be transported on Vauxhall’s unique FlexFix bicycle carrier and be charged while driving.

Motorised pedal-assist technology

Delivering at least 40 Nm of instant torque, and with support from the motor while pedalling, the bike feels agile and fun to ride. At an average speed of 12.4mph, the e-bike achieves an electrically supported range of between 35 and 90 miles (depending on the electric assistant and terrain).

The same smartphone-based control unit that made its debut with the RAK e battery powered experimental car last year is now used with the RAD e. The control unit is a user-friendly solution that unlocks the electric engine and provides real-time data on range, speed and exact location.

All photographs are for illustrative purposes only and may not depict the actual car. Specifications, mileage and prices are subject to change, please contact us to confirm before travelling or a purchase is agreed.